The 10 Most Terrifying Things About Secondary Glazing Sash Windows

Secondary Glazing For sash window locks with key Windows

Many homeowners are not able to build new double-glazed windows to their homes due to financial constraints or because they reside in listed buildings that prohibit any exterior changes.

Secondary glazing is a great alternative to sash windows. It can be put in various ways.

It's an additional pane of glass within the window frame that stops cold air from entering your home, while also providing insulation and noise reduction.

Fixed Inserts

If you're considering secondary glazing for your sash windows, there are several different styles to pick from. Each offers a unique set of benefits, from improved security to reduced condensation. Which one is best for you?

The principle behind secondary glazing is to incorporate an extra pane of glass inside the window frame. This provides an additional layer of insulation and noiseproofing to your home, increasing its energy efficiency.

However it's not always possible to install new double-glazed windows to your home particularly if you live in a listed structure or are subject to strict regulations regarding planning that define what can and can't be done to your exterior.

Secondary glazing is a fantastic alternative in these circumstances. It can be put in quite easily. It's also a popular option for people looking to update their period property without having to take down the original windows in sash and replace them with modern ones.

There are a variety of different options available for secondary glazing sash windows, each of can be customized to fit the frame you have. Proprietary systems are usually constructed of painted aluminium frames that fit into the existing staff bead depth on a sash window. This lets shutters and sills be retained.

They can be equipped using a variety of installation methods that include glazing clips and Velcro. They offer a more stylish solution to screw-fixed units and are especially suited for windows that aren't required to be opened regularly. You can also opt for a fixed lift-out unit that can be lifted out and put back in its place with ease to allow windows to be opened.

Horizontal Sliders

Horizontal Sliders provide excellent thermal insulation and are the most popular option for enhancing existing sash windows. They are also quiet and ideal for historic properties, conservation areas & listed properties. They can be fitted with the need for access from outside as they are operated from inside.

They can be operated manually, and they can be left open or partially opened to allow ventilation. They are effective at keeping out draughts, and also filter harmful UV light. They can be used in combination with a flyscreen to keep out mosquitoes and other insects during the summer months.

Our Trackglaze horizontal sliding system offers all the advantages of modern double glazing to your original windows made of sash. It consists of PVC double sliding track that runs across all four sides of the cavity, a simple brush seal around each sheet of glass and a finger pull angle handle to act as a hand and reduce bowing. It comes in kits of 1m or 2m track and angle that can be stacked together to create bigger spans.

The acoustic benefits of second glazing are extremely important and can enhance noise reduction from outside, especially road, rail & airport traffic. The addition of laminated glass or toughened glasses enhances the acoustic performances. Secondary glazing that is standard reduces outside noise to 52dB (Rw) and specialist glass, such as Stadip Silence Laminated Acoustic Glass, can achieve even higher levels of acoustic performance.

It can improve the energy efficiency of your house by keeping it warm for longer. This will decrease the need for central heating. It is less expensive than replacing your sash windows and is installed without the need to remove the window or door frame.

Vertical Sliders

Secondary glazing is a cost-effective option that is typically simpler to manage than a full window replacement. It's suitable for Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas. It's an excellent way to improve the look of traditional sash windows in Suffolk & Essex while retaining their character.

Vertical Sliders were designed for sash window applications in which hinged panels from the standard range would not be suitable. The system features two secondary sashes, which are fixed one above the other within an outer frame. They are supported by spring balances, allowing for easy movement. The system can be purchased as a 'face-fixed' (installed to the inside of the existing window) for improved thermal performance or a 'reveal-fixed version, which has an air cavity for glass within the window's original reveal, for optimum audio-acoustic performance.

You can pick from a variety of handles and stop-strips to meet your needs. They can be positioned in a closed position for additional security or propped open to allow ventilation on the top or bottom glass. They can also be fitted with an insulating bristle seal to keep out drafts.

'Choices’ Imagine vertical slider secondary glass features all the authentic wood detailing you'd expect to see in a period window treatment. It comes in a variety of colours that are compatible with your sash. It's almost impossible to distinguish from the original sash window with features like sash horns & traditional butt joints being incorporated into the design. It's available in an extensive variety of sizes and can accept glass up to 6.8mm to give additional insulation against loss of heat. A tilt-in option is available that allows the sashes to be hinged into the safety stays to help with cleaning.

Hinged Casement

Our single-pane hinged secondary glass can be fitted to windows made of sash double glazing in any style such as casement and traditional box sash. The hinged units we offer can be supplied with a keylock handle, and are constructed with multi-point locking. This combination ensures the glass panel is secured securely in place, and it pulls tightly against the frame, creating a seal to reduce heat loss. Hinged windows can be side-hung or top-hung, and they can also be double glazed sash windows wood-glazed. Our double-glazed Windows provide enhanced acoustic performances and are available in 43dB (for 47dB) or 51dB (for 51dB) or 47dB (for 49dB).

Contrary to horizontal sash windows which have movable sashes that slide horizontally within the frame casement windows can be opened outwards and catch breezes from various angles. They can be opened from the top and bottom to allow controlled airflow. They can therefore increase airflow and are a great alternative to traditional sash window.

They are often used in modern homes because they have small "sightlines" and unobstructed views, but can also be fitted into listed properties because they do not require transoms or mullions. They can also be utilized in hard-to-reach places as they can be opened simply by turning the handle.

This type of window can be a problem as it can restrict the use of certain window treatments. They are also difficult to clean since they open outwards, and could require regular maintenance and servicing.

Lift Out Windows

Secondary glazing can be put in place using a variety of ways. The cost of installation will vary according to the preference of the materials, thickness, and kind of glass. uPVC frames are the least expensive followed by aluminium, and wooden frames. Specialized glass can also add to the price and include additional features such as security or sound reduction.

The complexity of the installation will also influence the cost. The more complex the project will take longer and more labor will be required. This also applies to heritage properties with more intricate sash windows that require expertise and knowledge.

The best place to begin is to assess the condition of your current windows. You can get an accurate estimate of the cost by having them inspected by an expert.

Generally speaking, secondary glass will have a minimal impact on the overall appearance of your home. This is thanks to the fact that the modern FINEO double glazing has slim and discrete frames, meaning you can achieve thermal efficiency without sacrificing aesthetics.

A popular choice of secondary glazing is horizontal sliding, which allows easy access to windows that are already sash for cleaning or ventilation. They can also be purchased with a tilt function, which you can activate by unlocking the catch on your secondary glazing panel and then lifting it vertically to a set point. This is a great option for windows that aren't opened very often. It can also be used to allow air conditioning access to bay windows. You can also use them to open the middle sash of a traditional sash Bay Window to create a symmetrical appearance.